Showing papers by "General Electric published in 1997"

Linear pushbroom cameras

Abstract: Modeling and analyzing pushbroom sensors commonly used in satellite imagery is difficult and computationally intensive due to the motion of an orbiting satellite with respect to the rotating Earth, and the nonlinearity of the mathematical model involving orbital dynamics. In this paper, a simplified model of a pushbroom sensor (the linear pushbroom model) is introduced. It has the advantage of computational simplicity while at the same time giving very accurate results compared with the full orbiting pushbroom model. Besides remote sensing, the linear pushbroom model is also useful in many other imaging applications. Simple noniterative methods are given for solving the major standard photogrammetric problems for the linear pushbroom model: computation of the model parameters from ground-control points; determination of relative model parameters from image correspondences between two images; and scene reconstruction given image correspondences and ground-control points. The linear pushbroom model leads to theoretical insights that are approximately valid for the full model as well. The epipolar geometry of linear pushbroom cameras is investigated and shown to be totally different from that of a perspective camera. Nevertheless, a matrix analogous to the fundamental matrix of perspective cameras is shown to exist for linear pushbroom sensors. From this it is shown that a scene is determined up to an affine transformation from two views with linear pushbroom cameras.

Real-time interactive MRI on a conventional scanner.

Abstract: A real-time interactive MRI system capable of localizing coronary arteries and imaging arrhythmic hearts in real-time is described. Non-2DFT acquisition strategies such as spiral-interleaf, spiral-ring, and circular echo-planar imaging provide short scan times on a conventional scanner. Real-time gridding reconstruction at 8-20 images/s is achieved by distributing the reconstruction on general-purpose UNIX workstations. An X-windows application provides interactive control. A six-interleaf spiral sequence is used for cardiac imaging and can acquire six images/s. A sliding window reconstruction achieves display rates of 16-20 images/s. This allows cardiac images to be acquired in real-time, with minimal motion and flow artifacts, and without breath holding or cardiac gating. Abdominal images are acquired at over 2.5 images/s with spiral-ring or circular echo-planar sequences. Reconstruction rates are 8-10 images/s. Rapid localization in the abdomen is demonstrated with the spiral-ring acquisition, whereas peristaltic motion in the small bowel is well visualized using the circular echo-planar sequence.

Soft computing: the convergence of emerging reasoning technologies

Abstract: The term Soft Computing (SC) represents the combination of emerging problem-solving technologies such as Fuzzy Logic (FL), Probabilistic Reasoning (PR), Neural Networks (NNs), and Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Each of these technologies provide us with complementary reasoning and searching methods to solve complex, real-world problems. After a brief description of each of these technologies, we will analyze some of their most useful combinations, such as the use of FL to control GAs and NNs parameters; the application of GAs to evolve NNs (topologies or weights) or to tune FL controllers; and the implementation of FL controllers as NNs tuned by backpropagation-type algorithms.

Object-Oriented Modeling and Design for Database Applications

Abstract: 1. Introduction. I. MODELING CONCEPTS. 2. Basic Object Modeling. 3. Advanced Object Modeling. 4. Object Metamodeling. 5. Functional Modeling. II. ANALYSIS AND DESIGN PROCESS. 6. Process Preview. 7. Conceptualization. 8. Analysis. 9. System Design. 10. Detailed Design. 11. Process Review. III. IMPLEMENTATION. 12. Files. 13. Relational Databases: Basics. 14. Relational Databases: Advanced. 15. Object-Oriented Databases: Basics. 16. Object-Oriented Databases: Advanced. 17. Implementation Review. IV. LARGE SYSTEM ISSUES. 18. Distributed Databases. 19. Integration of Applications. 20. Reverse Engineering. Appendix A. Glossary. Appendix B. BNF Grammar for the ONN. Index.

Computed tomography metrology

Abstract: The invention is a three-dimensional computed tomography method for inspecting and comparing actual geometry to predetermined geometry of an object. The method includes the following steps: A) three-dimensionally scanning the object using computed tomography to produce multiple slices of actual geometrical data of the object; B) processing the multiple slices of actual geometrical data into actual boundary data which defines internal and external boundaries of the object; and C) producing actual point cloud data from the actual boundary data. The method further includes comparing the actual point cloud data to object geometry predetermined data. The comparing may include outputting an image comparing the point cloud data to the predetermined data and the image may represent the geometry of non-conformance between the point cloud data and the predetermined data. The image may be rotated to present the non-conformance from different viewpoints around the feature.

A light-emitting diode white light source

Abstract: A system of at least three multi-colored LED's has an optimized color rendering index by proper selection of the wavelengths of each LED, such system being useful for general illumination purposes

Design of a depth of interaction (DOI) PET detector module

Abstract: A method to determine depth of interaction (DOI) from a PET detector module is described and evaluated. The basic element of the DOI detector module is a two crystal detector unit. The hypothesis is that by controlling how light is shared between two crystals (A and B) DOI information can be extracted from the ratio of light collected using simple Anger type logic [A/(A+B)]. The interface between crystals is designed so that a significant amount of light is shared when a photon interacts near the front face of a crystal and very little light is shared when an interaction occurs near the back of a crystal. The effects of surface treatment (e.g., polished, roughened) and optical coupling compounds are investigated. BGO, GSO and LSO detector units have been evaluated. A DOI uncertainty of /spl sim/6 mm was attained for the front section (/spl sim/4 mm) of a 2/spl times/2/spl times/20 mm LSO detector unit. A method to decode a 64 crystal detector module (32 detector units) using a 16 channel multi-anode photomultiplier tube is described.

Elastomer gels containing volatile, low molecular weight silicones

Abstract: A composition comprising the hydrosilylation addition product of a linear alkenyl functionalized polyorganosiloxane and an MH Q resin and a low molecular weight silicone when subjected to shearing provides for components in personal care formulations that have improved spreadability and substance.

Ultrasound transducer with focused ultrasound refraction plate

Abstract: A system for performing surgery by vibrational heating employs an ultrasonic transducer 80 for focusing a spherical ultrasound wave on a focal region. In one embodiment a refraction plate 410 having a spherical surface facing the transducer and a refracting surface with refracting pyramid elements 450 facing the subject causes the ultrasound beam to impinge on a plurality of overlapping focal regions and thereby expand the focal area of the transducer. In a second embodiment the refraction plate comprises a phased lens 600 having a constant thickness at any angular location but with its thickness varying linearly over 2π radians or multiples thereof.

Liquid cooled electric motor frame

Abstract: Liquid cooled electric motors including stator frames having cast in place cooling conduits are described. In an exemplary embodiment, the conduit is arranged in a generally helical configuration and the stator frame is cast around the conduit so that the conduit is embedded within, and integral with, the frame. Spacer, or stabilizer, bars are engaged to the conduit and provide support for the conduit and facilitate maintaining the desired spacing between lengths of conduit and between the conduit and the frame wall. The stator frame with the cast in place cooling conduit has the advantages of a liquid cooled motor yet is believed to be lower cost than known liquid cooled motors. The frame also is believed to be less susceptible to corrosion and liquid leaks as compared to known liquid cooled motors. Further, the advantage that the cooling coil and frame material may be different is provided, which enables selection of optimum material for the coil and frame with respect to cost, corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and machinability.

Identification and modification of biphenyl dioxygenase sequences that determine the specificity of polychlorinated biphenyl degradation.

Abstract: The polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener specificities and partial BphA sequences of biphenyl dioxygenase were determined for a set of PCB-degrading bacteria. The strains examined were categorized into two groups based on their ability to degrade 17 PCB congeners. Strains that degraded a broad range of PCBs but had relatively weak activity against di-para-substituted PCBs were designated as having an LB400-type specificity. Strains designated as having a KF707-type specificity degraded a much narrower range of PCBs but had strong activity against certain di-para-substituted congeners. BphA protein sequence comparisons between these two types of strains identified four regions (designated I, II, III, and IV) in which specific sequences were consistently associated with either broad or narrow PCB substrate specificity. The dramatic differences in substrate specificity between LB400 and KF707 appear to result primarily from a combination of mutations in regions III and IV. Altering these regions in the LB400 BphA subunit to correspond to those in the KF707 sequence produced a narrow substrate specificity very similar to that of KF707. Some individual mutations within region III alone were found to improve PCB degradative activity, especially for di-para-substituted congeners. However, the greatest improvements in activity resulted from multiple amino acid modifications in region III, suggesting that the effects of these mutations are cooperative. These results demonstrate the ability to significantly improve PCB oxidative activity through sequence modifications of biphenyl dioxygenase.

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) (Glass)

Abstract: Publisher Summary The room-temperature optical properties of silicon dioxide (SiO2) glass is extensively analyzed to obtain a self-consistent set of optical constants, refractive index n and extinction coefficient k , for this material, especially in the regions of strong absorption in the infrared and vacuum ultraviolet. However, when the absorption is high, these optical constants are usually obtained by Kramers- Kronig (KK) analysis of reflectance data that are difficult to measure with high accuracy. The KK analysis requires extrapolations into spectral regions for which no data exist, thereby introducing additional uncertainties in the derived n and k values. But in the region of low absorption, the index of refraction can be evaluated from prism data, and this is accomplished with great precision for SiO2. It is also noted for SiO2, the presence of water or OH absorption in the samples makes the determination of the intrinsic k values extremely difficult in certain parts of the infrared and vacuum ultraviolet spectral regions.

Protected thermal barrier coating composite with multiple coatings

Abstract: A composite that protects thermal barrier coatings from the deleterious effects of environmental contaminants at operational temperatures is discovered. The thermal barrier coated parts have least two outer protective coatings that decrease infiltration of molten contaminant eutectic mixtures into openings in the thermal barrier coating.

Turbine blade with enhanced cooling and profile optimization

Abstract: A first-stage turbine blade includes an airfoil having a profile according to Table I. The airfoil has a plurality of cooling air passages extending linearly from the root portion to the tip portion of the airfoil. The blade includes a shank having a pair of cavities in communication through the blade dovetail with a plenum in the wheel space for supplying cooling air to the passages in the airfoil. The cooling passages in the airfoil terminate in a recess at the tip portion which has an opening adjacent the trailing edge of the airfoil and along the suction side to enable egress of cooling air into the hot gas stream on the low pressure side of the airfoil. The majority of the cooling passages are turbulated. Certain of those passages are arranged in rows lying adjacent to the pressure and suction sides of the airfoil.

Center burner in a multi-burner combustor

Abstract: In a gas turbine having a plurality of combustors, each having an annular array of outer fuel nozzles arranged about a center axis, an improved construction is provided wherein each combustor has a center nozzle located on the center axis. Various methods of operating the improved combustor are also disclosed. For example, one method of operating a combustor for a gas turbine wherein the combustor has a plurality of fuel nozzles in an annular array arranged about a center axis and has a center nozzle located on the center axis, and wherein the annular array is supplied with fuel from at least one pre-mix fuel manifold, and further wherein the center nozzle is supplied with fuel from a center nozzle pre-mix fuel manifold includes the steps of: a) at ignition, supplying the center nozzle with fuel from the center nozzle pre-mix fuel manifold and two of the outer fuel nozzles in line with cross-fire tubes with fuel from at least one pre-mix fuel manifold; b) after detecting cross-fire with flame detectors, turning off fuel to the outer two cross-fire nozzles, supplying all fuel to the center nozzle, and accelerating through FSNL to a part load by increasing fuel flow to the center nozzle; c) at the part load, begin transferring some pre-mix fuel away from the center nozzle and staging it to the outer fuel nozzles in the following sequence as total fuel flow is increased: 1) center nozzle+two cross-fire nozzles, 2) center nozzle+non-cross-fire nozzles, 3) all outer fuel nozzles in annular array (no center nozzle), and 4) center nozzle+all outer fuel nozzles.

Method and system for wind turbine braking

Abstract: Stored rotational energy in an operating variable speed wind turbine is used to pitch blades and brake the wind turbine in the event of utility power grid failure. In one embodiment, a generator IGBT converter and the main power utility grid IGBT converter supply control and pitch servo power during turbine deceleration, and a ride-through capacitor on a DC emergency power supply bus and the main DC link capacitor provide additional energy storage. In another embodiment, a step-down DC/DC power converter adds to the intermediate DC link of the power conversion system with the secondary of the step down converter powering both the hub pitch controller and the wind turbine control system.

Method and apparatus for performing the register functions for a plurality of metering devices at a common node

Abstract: A method and apparatus of the present invention includes a common node of a power line communications system for individually performing the register functions for a plurality of electrical metering devices operably connected to the node The power line communications system includes at least one node having a plurality of registers, a respective one of which is associated with a respective electrical metering device The electrical metering devices connected via the power lines to the node measure the power consumption of the electrical load associated therewith and transmit a signal indicative of the measured power consumption to the node and, in particular, to the respective register of the node associated with the electrical metering device The node individually determines the power consumed by each electrical load operably connected to the node based upon the received signals The results of such calculations are stored in the register associated with each respective electrical metering device The stored results are also periodically transmitted to the system control center of the power line communications system Thus, the register functions for a plurality of relatively simple electrical metering devices may be centralized at a common node

System and method for proactively monitoring risk exposure

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for proactively monitoring risk exposure. In this invention, risk related information is received at an input knowledge source. A shared database stores the risk related information received at the input knowledge source. A plurality of domain knowledge sources formulates a decision on how the risk related information in the shared database affects a predetermined risk category. An output knowledge source generates a risk related report in response to the decisions formulated by each of the plurality of domain knowledge sources. A risk analytics router routes the risk related information in the input knowledge source to the shared database, the risk related information in the shared database to at least one of the domain knowledge sources, the decisions formulated from the domain knowledge sources to the shared database, and the decisions from the shared database to the output knowledge source.

Power efficient receiver

Abstract: A direct sequence spread spectrum receiver samples an incoming signal and stores the sample in memory. Power is then inhibited to the tuner of the receiver to minimize power consumption. The signal sample may be read from memory when necessary to process the signal without further signal acquisition. Power to other receiver sections may be selectively controlled to minimize power consumption. Such a receiver is useful in global positioning satellite (GPS) signal processing where the receiver has a limited power supply.

Low power parallel correlator for measuring correlation between digital signal segments

Abstract: Correlation between a pair of digital signal segments is measured by apparatus including a pluraltiy of multipliers (1200). Each of the multipliers produces the product of a respective sample of each one of the signal segments. The outputs of a plurality of digital-to-analog (D/A) converters (1300) are coupled to a summer (80), while each respective one of the multipliers (1200) is coupled to the input of a respective one of the D/A converters (1300). The summer (80) produces an analog output signal equal to the sum of the analog output signals produced by the plurality of D/A converter.

Chevron exhaust nozzle for a gas turbine engine

Abstract: A gas turbine engine exhaust nozzle includes an exhaust duct for channeling a gas jet. A plurality of adjoining chevrons are disposed at an aft end of the duct to define an exhaust outlet. Each of the chevrons is triangular in configuration, with a base, apex, side trailing edges converging therebetween, and radially opposite first and second surfaces bounded thereby. The trailing edges of adjacent chevrons are spaced laterally apart to define respective diverging slots disposed in flow communication with the duct. The chevrons have a concave contour axially between the bases and apexes which promotes jet mixing through the slots.

Method for repairing a thermal barrier coating

Abstract: A method of repairing a thermal barrier coating on an article designed for use in a hostile thermal environment, such as turbine, combustor and augmentor components of a gas turbine engine. The method is particularly suited for the repair of thermal barrier coatings composed of a metallic bond layer formed on the surface of the article, and a columnar ceramic layer overlaying the bond layer. The method entails the steps of cleaning the bond layer exposed by localized spallation, treating the bond layer so as to texture its exposed surface, and then depositing a ceramic material on the surface of the bond layer so as to form a ceramic repair layer that completely covers the bond layer. Deposition of the repair layer can be carried out such that its upper surface projects above the adjacent ceramic layer, followed by abrading the repair layer to a height substantially level with the ceramic layer.

Emitter-cup cathode for high-emission x-ray tube

Abstract: An x-ray tube has at least one approximately planar electron emitter and an emitter-cup cathode configured to provide an electron beam of substantially greater perveance and beam compression ratio than otherwise obtainable with conventional cathode designs. The cup is optimized for use in a line-focus, planar-anode tube and has a slot in which the emitter is situated, an adjacent face region which is planar and angled so as to properly form the initial electron beam, a recess to allow the initial electron beam to be accelerated without significant shaping, and an overhanging portion which completes the electron beam forming.

Task-interface and communications system and method for ultrasound imager control

Abstract: Complex equipment operated by a plurality of computerized task functions is coupled to a host processor which controls operation of a plurality of task functions performed by the equipment. Included in the equipment are a plurality of client processors, a communications network coupling the host processor to the client processors, and a plurality of programs providing respective task interfaces for running selected task functions of the equipment on any of the client processors as remote processes. Each task interface program includes a library of communications handlers and a designated task interface. When the complex equipment comprises an ultrasound imager system, the task functions of shaping a transmit waveform and shading the transducer reception parameters are performed through preferred embodiments of such task interfaces. A voice input task function may also be run as a remote process coupled to the imager host through the network interface.

Image guided breast lesion localization device

Abstract: A novel breast localization and biopsy system employs a chest support for holding the patient in a slightly rotated (20°-30°) prone position allowing the breast tissue hang downward and fit through an opening in the chest support, while holding the other breast against the subject away from the imaging region. A pair of support plates compress the breast tissue. At least one of the support plates has a grid with reference markers for localization and windows allowing a physician access to the breast tissue. A thick biopsy plate with a plurality of holes at marked positions fits into one of the grid openings and guides an interventional device, such a biopsy needle, into a desired location in a lesion. In an alternative embodiment, both breasts fit through the chest support. There are two stabilization plate assemblies, one for each breast and two medical imaging sources. Each source points from the lateral to medial support plate to accomplish imaging of both breasts simultaneously.

Brush seals and combined labyrinth and brush seals for rotary machines

Abstract: Brush seals are retrofitted into existing turbine labyrinth seal rings to create a fail-safe seal design at locations wherever labyrinth seals are currently used, including interstage shaft seals, rotor end seals, bucket (or blade) tip seals and spill strips. Brush seals, per se, when used in place of labyrinth seals, can result in considerable span reductions of steam turbines, or machines with more turbine stages for a given span. Application to end packings results in the potential elimination of gland sealing/exhauster systems. Brush seal life can be improved by retrofitting brush segments to labyrinth seal segments that are either spring-backed, or use pressure loads to obtain design clearances only after steady state operating conditions are achieved. The brush seals are provided with backing plates shaped like labyrinth teeth, resulting in a fail-safe design. Also, the use of existing labyrinth teeth as bristle backing plates results in a brush seal with diminished susceptibility to hysteresis when compared to conventional brush seal designs. Low friction coatings can also be used to reduce brush seal hysteresis. Incorporation of brush seals in labyrinth seal rings that are either spring-backed or held in place by pressure forces results in extremely low brush seal wear.

Poly-component blade for a gas turbine

Abstract: A lightweight, impact-resistant gas turbine blade, such as an aircraft engine fan blade, has an airfoil portion (14). The airfoil portion includes a metallic section (28) consisting essentially of metal and at least one panel section (38) not consisting essentially of metal. The metallic section extends from generally the blade root to generally the blade tip. Each panel section is an elastomeric section. Preferably, the metallic section and the at-least-one panel section only together define a generally airfoil shape.

Method and apparatus for enhanced service quality through remote diagnostics

Abstract: The present invention provides for satellite-based remote monitoring of equipment under test to perform predictive assessment from a central diagnostic site which houses a central diagnostic station. The satellite-based remote diagnostic system monitors several machines at various geographically remote locations. Information gathered enables the user to assess the health of the equipment under test. The user may also utilize the present invention to conduct specialized tests on the equipment under test to aid in predictive maintenance.

Interface structures for electronic devices

Abstract: An interface includes a surface having an electrically conductive pad; a compliant coating over the surface having a via extending to the pad; metallization patterned over the compliant coating and extending into the via; a low modulus dielectric interface layer overlying the compliant coating and having an interface via extending to the metallization; and a floating pad structure including floating pad metallization patterned over the dielectric interface layer with a first portion forming a central pad and a second portion forming an extension from the central pad extending into the interface via. Another interface includes a substrate including a low modulus dielectric interface material having a hole extending at least partially therethrough and a floating contact structure including electrically conductive material coating the hole with at least some of the floating pad metallization forming an extension from the hole. A conductive contact area interface may include an electrically conductive first contact area; an electrically conductive second contact area facing and being substantially aligned with the first contact area; and at least one interface structure coupled between the first and second contact areas and including an electrical conductor having a partially open interior to form a compliant joint between the first and second contact areas.